Michael Henderson
's solo debut
Solid
brought immediate recognition to the longtime backing vocalist/musician. The mesmerizing ballad
"Be My Girl"
was the first release, and it propelled
Henderson
to number 23 on the R&B charts. (He later produced the same song for
the Dramatics
.) Composed by
,
"Valentine Love"
is an even more indelible ballad. The spirited, seductive sax introduction bows to a poetic narrative and a smooth rhythm in which
gives a ample vocal exhibition. The single was originally featured on
Norman Connors
'
Saturday Night Special
album, with
sharing lead vocal duties with
Jean Carne
. The injustice here is that
's solo version was never a release, though it is just as good as the duet. (
Connors
' version peaked at number ten on the R&B charts.) The second release from this impressive debut release was the upbeat
"You Haven't Made It to the Top."
While it's clear
has his own style,
the Brothers Johnson
come to mind on this number. The remainder of the album is pleasantly diverse. The Mississippi native's grooves are inviting, from blue-funk instrumentals like
"Time"
and the title track to the free-flowing
"Let Love Enter,"
where he vocally strides into the lyric.
interjects his jazz roots on
"Treat Me Like a Man,"
setting an urban mood while he patiently pleads his case. The songs on this collection are truly R&B gems, and
's efforts are very underrated. ~ Craig Lytle